Occupy Bristol

MESSAGE TO ALL BRISTOL OCCUPIERS

Rather than jumping head first into voting on who should or shouldn’t be granted a position of responsibility within the General Assembly, I was wondering if it would not be better if we first looked to protect ourselves by setting out guidelines on how we can promote and strengthen our unity. I thought it may be better to first discuss and build the framework whereby the practicalities of the occupation are addressed, such as security, health and safety, sanitation and so on.

If we could begin by looking at ways in which we could pass a unified motion on what is and what is not acceptable behavior within the vicinity of the occupation site, I think this would also be a great start. I agree that we all have a right to free expression and so on, however, I think it would be advisable for us to also set some boundaries as to what behavior we would have difficulty accepting. If we are going to do this I believe unity will be our most powerful and precious possession. The last thing we want is to feel alienated from each other, as it will alienate and deter others from joining us.

I’m not saying this is correct or that we have to do this. However, I do think it would be a good idea in order for the wider community as well as the police to see that we are serious about addressing some of the general concerns they may have. It is my belief that developing a framework in this way, we would naturally be promoting unity by way of active participation. It would act as a kind of icebreaker and enable us to begin communicating with each other. Personally I think addressing the practicalities before diving into core issues would be a good idea.

Please have a think about practical issues and how you think we can best overcome them. If your happy with what I’m proposing please let me know. Again I’m not a leader or trying to influence you. I’m just trying to lay the framework for the General Assembly so that our democratic evolution can begin.

Thanks again
Mark x